Numbers 13:28

Verse

Nevertheless, the people living in the land are strong, and the cities are large and fortified. We even saw the descendants of Anak there.

American Standard Version (1901)

Howbeit the people that dwell in the land are strong, and the cities are fortified, and very great: and moreover we saw the children of Anak there.

Bible in Basic English

But the people living in the land are strong, and the towns are walled and very great; further, we saw the children of Anak there.

Free Bible Version

But the people living there are strong, and their towns are big and have defensive walls. We also saw some descendants of Anak there.

King James (Authorized) Version

Nevertheless the people be strong that dwell in the land, and the cities are walled, and very great: and moreover we saw the children of Anak there.

One Unity Resource Bible

However the people who dwell in the land are strong, and the cities are fortified and very large. Moreover, we saw the children of Anak there.

Translation for Translators

But the people who live there are very strong. Their cities are large and are surrounded by walls. We even saw some of the huge descendants of Anak there.

Unlocked Literal Bible

However, the people who make their homes there are strong. The cities are fortified and very large. We also saw descendants of Anak there.

Noah Webster Bible

Nevertheless, the people are strong that dwell in the land, and the cities are walled, and very great: and moreover, we saw the children of Anak there.

World English Bible

However, the people who dwell in the land are strong, and the cities are fortified and very large. Moreover, we saw the children of Anak there.

Young's Literal Translation

only, surely the people which is dwelling in the land [is] strong; and the cities are fenced, very great; and also children of Anak we have seen there.

Context

The Reports of the Spies

²⁷And they gave this account to Moses: “We went into the land to which you sent us, and indeed, it is flowing with milk and honey. Here is some of its fruit!²⁸Nevertheless, the people living in the land are strong, and the cities are large and fortified. We even saw the descendants of Anak there.²⁹The Amalekites live in the land of the Negev; the Hittites, Jebusites, and Amorites live in the hill country; and the Canaanites live by the sea and along the Jordan.”

Summary

In Numbers 13:28, the spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan report that the people living there are strong, and the cities are fortified and very large. This verse reflects the initial fear and doubt expressed by the Israelites when faced with the challenges of entering the Promised Land. Despite the obstacles described, it serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's promises and having faith in His ability to overcome any difficulties that may arise. The verse sets the stage for the subsequent events in which the Israelites' lack of faith leads to consequences and delays in entering the land flowing with milk and honey.

Commentary